Shark week begins Aug. 10 on the Discovery Channel, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium is ready to help sort fact from fiction.

The celebrations of shark week at the aquarium are different than the exaggerated Hollywood myths seen on television, but not any less thrilling. On Aug. 9 and 10, the aquarium will set a stage to promote understanding of these keystone predators with scuba diver presentations in the shark infested Open Sea exhibit and the education program. The Flying Great White Sharks of South Africa," with Aquarium Science Program Director Chris Spaulding will be a highlight of the event.

A variety of activities for visitors of all ages will be available throughout the weekend. Some activities include the Sea & Me exhibit for those 10 and younger, the Shark Shenanigans education program complete with life-sized representations of great white sharks, and more.

Those who wish to make shark week last a bit longer can choose to stay for a shark-themed sleepover on Saturday night. It's a rare chance to sleep just inches from the sevengill, leopard, soupfin and other sharks.

Shark Conservation Weekend activities are free with aquarium admission, except for the sleepover which needs to made a week in advance. For more information about the event, go to aquarium.org, or call (541) 867 3474.

If you go

What: Shark Conservation Weekend

Where: The Oregon Coast Aquarium - 2820 SE Ferry Slip Road, Newport

When: Aug. 9 and Aug. 10

A blue shark, native to Oregon's pelagic waters, swims through the open ocean.(Photo: Oregon Coast Aquarium / Special to the Statesman Journal)